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The SingStar series has shown that the PlayStation 2 console can
be enjoyed by more than just dedicated gamers.

While hours of practice can help produce good results, this
title calls for some raw talent as well.

The software and pair of microphones convert the console into a
karaoke machine capable of detecting a singer's pitch, tone and
rhythm as they compete in a series of singing challenges.

Pop includes a fresh collection of 30 licensed songs and videos
combining a mix of recent tunes, with golden oldies thrown in. A
third of the songs are by local artists including Evermore, Shannon
Noll, Missy Higgins, Delta Goodrem, Savage Garden, INXS and Kylie
Minogue.

Familiar modes make a return from the previous titles. Up to
eight players can take part in party battles, pass the microphone
and duets.

Goals include reaching the highest score, being first to a
target score, and keeping the performance marker above a certain
level.

Two key new features have been included. A new medley mode
strings together short passages from five different songs,
requiring players to switch quickly between the hooks of each
song.

In addition, several songs include a Rap Scoring feature
requiring players to perform rhythmic phrases rather than
singing.

EyeToy owners can project visuals of the singer on the screen
instead of the video for the song, then record key moments during
their performance for replay afterwards.

New vocal effects have also been added for those who have come
to realise disguising their voice is probably best for all
concerned.

Endgame: Apart from a few minor additions, the
continued success of this series really comes down to personal
taste with the music selection.

SRS - Street Racing Syndicate

Runs on: Xbox, PS2, Gamecube, PC

Price: $79.95 (PC $49.95)

Classification: M15+

Rating: * * *

Movies such as The Fast and the Furious have prompted a number
of developers to target street-racing fans. The creators of the
Ridge Racer series are the latest to try their hand.

SRS has four arcade modes that help familiarise drivers with
various race events. The focus here is on instant action rather
than fiddling under the bonnet.

Street mode is where the majority of features can be explored.
Drivers buy their first car with only limited funds then visit the
garage for necessary tuning and customisation. Maintenance options
include paint jobs, vinyl decals, engine tweaks with various
authentic after-market parts and using the Dyno to check for
performance improvements.

Seven imported car makers are featured and there are more than
40 models to purchase, including the Mitsubishi Evolution, Subaru
Impreza and Nissan Skyline.

Drivers race on city streets, accepting challenges from other
drivers, or enter multi-heat events to earn respect of other race
teams and even the interest of girls. Respect points are needed to
progress to new events and unlock new cars. These points are also
awarded for impressive driving.

On the track, however, the racing is less glamorous. Car
handling is stiff and the action lacks a sense of speed. Online
racing does extend the replay value, and drivers also have the
opportunity to win their rival's ride.

Endgame: Petrol-heads will appreciate the depth
of tweaking available. The rest will miss the core thrills of
white-knuckle racing.

Games classifications in Australia have been brought into line
with those for movies, with PG replacing the G8+ category and M
replacing the M15+ rating. However, an R18+ category has not been
introduced.

Microsoft is working on a fantasy-based sequel to the epic
strategy PC game Rise of Nations. The new game, Rise of Legends,
lets gamers control powerful heroes and mystical creatures, using
vast armies and spectacular magical spells to devastate foes.

Pro Evolution Soccer 5 is in development, and will include the
feature of online play on the PS2 for the first time. A PlayStation
Portable handheld version of the popular sporting simulation is
also in development.